Israel seeks US approval for Beirut strikes

Israel has reportedly asked the United States for approval to expand its military campaign in Lebanon to include airstrikes on Beirut, according to a report by Israel’s Channel 12.

The broadcaster said senior Israeli officials submitted formal requests to Washington seeking authorization to widen military operations and target sites in the Lebanese capital. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thinks that not targeting Beirut is hurting Israels goals in its conflict with Hezbollah.

Channel 12 reported that the Israeli military recently presented several operational scenarios to political leaders, including plans involving strikes in Beirut that would require civilian evacuation measures. 

The report further claimed that officials in the administration of US President Donald Trump have shown greater openness to the proposal, although no final approval has been granted.

There has been no immediate official response from Washington regarding the reported request. 

Reuters says the United States is trying to reduce tensions, between Israel and Lebanon. They want to stop things from getting worse in Beirut. They want Hezbollah to stop attacking.

The report comes as fighting continues despite a ceasefire that took effect on April 17 and was later extended following indirect US-mediated talks. Israeli forces have recently expanded ground operations in southern Lebanon, including the capture of Beaufort Castle, while Hezbollah has continued rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel.

According to Lebanon’s Health Ministry, more than 3,400 people have been killed since the latest escalation began in March.